Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated that India would continue to stand with the friendly people of Sri Lanka. Mr Modi was speaking to Finance Minister of Sri Lanka Basil Rajapaksa who called on him in New Delhi today. Mr Modi spoke about the central role that Sri Lanka occupies in India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its S.A.G.A.R (Security and Growth for all in the Region) doctrine. The Prime Minister pointed to the potential for increasing tourist flows, including through joint promotion of Buddhist and Ramayan tourism circuits.
Mr Rajapaksa briefed the Prime Minister on initiatives being taken by both countries to increase bilateral economic cooperation and conveyed his thanks for the support extended by India for the Sri Lankan economy. The Sri Lankan Finance Minister noted the deepening people-to-people relations between both countries, including in the cultural sphere.
Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla called on the visiting Finance Minister in New Delhi today. They discussed bilateral economic and commercial cooperation and opportunities post-pandemic. Mr Shringla said, Sri Lanka is integral to India’s Neighbourhood First policy. He said, India will always be a reliable partner for Sri Lanka.
